Doing English

Description

'Exactly what students need.' – Times Education Supplement

‘Excellent: … Thought-provoking and accessible.' – The English and Media Magazine

'Doing English does English proud … This is essential reading for students intending to study English to degree level – and for all those preparing for the challenges of new AS/A2.’ – Adrian Beard, Gosforth High School, UK

‘A valuable, original book. I know of no other that prepares students for higher education in this way.’ – Peter Childs, University of Gloucestershire, UK

Aimed at students of English Literature in their final year of secondary education or beginning degrees, this immensely readable book is the ideal introduction to studying English Literature.

Doing English presents the ideas and debates that shape how we ‘do’ English today, covering arguments about the value of literature, the canon, Shakespeare, theory, politics and the future of the subject.

In his lucid and engaging style, Robert Eaglestone:

• orientates you, examining what it is to 'do English'
• equips you for future study, explaining key ideas and trends in English Studies in context
• enables you, bridging the gap between 'traditional' and 'theoretical' approaches to literature.

Practical and provocative, the new third edition of this classic guide is fully updated, including new material on English assessment objectives and a new chapter on creative writing.

Contents

Introduction Part 1: How We Read 1. Where did English Come From? 2. Doing English Today 3. English and ‘The Right Answer’ 4. Critical Attitudes Part 2: What We Read 5. Literature, Value and the Canon 6. Doing Shakespeare Part 3: Reading, Writing and Meaning 7. The Author is Dead? 8. Metaphors and Figures of Speech 9. Narrative and Closure 10. Creative and Critical Rewriting Part 4: English Studies…? 11. English, National Identity and Cultural Heritage 12. English, Literature and Politics 13. Creative and Critical Rewriting 14. Interdisciplinary English. Conclusion: The Importance of English. Further Reading

Author Bio

Robert Eaglestone is Professor of Contemporary Literature and Thought at Royal Holloway, University of London, and Series Editor of Routledge Critical Thinkers.

Related Subjects

1. Introductory Literary Studies
2. Literature & Language